MITHRIDATE Boutique by SLT DESIGN (China)
MITHRIDATE Boutique, designed by SLT Design, is located in Guangzhou, China. The avant-garde fashion brand constantly draws inspiration from theatre and the stage. Building on this concept, SLT Design transforms the shopping experience into an immersive theatrical journey, creating a captivating space inspired by the "Sphere" concept—a realm where reality and illusion seamlessly merge to capture the brand's essence and atmospheric identity. Visitors become both observers and participants in this fusion of fashion and aesthetics.
This spatial experiment bridges theatrical scenes with retail innovation, aligning with MITHRIDATE’s philosophy of “Fashion for Art.” A muted sand palette sets a minimalist tone, reminiscent of time-honoured theatre woodwork. Midnight blue accents punctuate this serene backdrop, while flocked metallic wave panels add depth and intrigue. Sleek, mirrored metal elements throughout complement MITHRIDATE's avant-garde aesthetic.
Addressing irregular spatial layouts, SLT adopts a four-act narrative structure to create versatile scenes that align with the overall concept while maintaining practical functionality.
Overture: Urban Prologue (Entrance)
MITHRIDATE Boutique stands as a shimmering proscenium stage amid the urban landscape, presenting each curated item through exquisite design. The facade, adorned with light grey linear stonework, subtly evokes the elegance of stage curtains. On one side of the window is an innovative installation inspired by the lifting stage, with spotlights drawing attention to the entrance. Opposite, mirrors create an illusion of expanded space, inviting contemplation
Development: Conceptual Reflection (Core display area)
The ceiling track guides customers towards a dramatically lit semicircular display area. Curved fixtures blend the concept of theatre steps with the recurring motif of an elevated platform. Strategically placed mirrors extend and reflect the semicircular design, blurring the boundaries between the tangible and the illusory. SLT's design employs dynamic perspectives to transform the compact front area into a space of endless possibilities.
Transition: Dynamic Showcase (Basic display area)
Moving into the basic display area, the innovative ceiling track system diversifies the product display, while versatile hanging rods and mobile mirrored cabinets allow for fluid transitions between different displays.
Finale: Inner Sphere (Boutique area)
Guided by the light, customers discover an intimate boutique area surrounded by blue curtains. Adjustable metal panels and curved rods suspended from the circular ceiling track create a flexible layout, allowing the space to transition from open to enclosed as needed. The elevating platform concept, a central design element, is reimagined in various functional forms such as display pedestals, resting seats, and cashier counters.
A discreet VIP area, nestled in the heart of the store, offers an exclusive "behind-the-scenes" experience for select clientele.
Theatrical elements, such as stages, curtains, elevated platforms, and spotlights, are transformed into a spatial syntax. SLT Design captures the essence of theatre through its focus on performance, storytelling, and ritual. By carefully orchestrating a series of captivating scenes, the space engages all the senses, guiding visitors on an emotional journey of self-discovery and reflection, eventually reaching the inner sphere.
About the Designer:
